Exterior remodeling projects like roof replacement will increase the appeal, protection and energy efficiency of your home. When getting a new roof, there are more things to consider than just the materials. Certain upgrades will improve the functionality and performance of your roof. Discuss this matter with your contractor to determine which components are ideal for the new system.

Here are upgrades worth investing in when replacing your roof.

Energy-Efficient Roofing Shingles

Energy-efficient shingles will help you save on your heating and cooling costs. These roofing materials contain reflective granules that reflect the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. The special granules protect the shingles from the heat and prevent hot air from penetrating your living spaces. By investing in energy-efficient shingles, your home will stay cool without using your air conditioner too much. Don’t worry because these shingles come in a wide range of colors to complement every home style.

Home improvement experts recommend energy-efficient asphalt shingles because of their durability and cost-effectiveness. Contractors prefer them because they are one of the easiest roofing materials to install. High-quality asphalt shingles offer increased protection against fire, wind, rain and other extreme elements. Want to enjoy a more peaceful home? Your asphalt roof can also play the role of insulation against outdoor noise, so your interior stays quieter.

Low-Maintenance Seamless Gutters

Gutters divert water away from your home to prevent damage to your roof, siding, windows and foundation. An efficient gutter system can also protect your landscaping from erosion. To ensure this component does its job efficiently, have it cleaned regularly. However, not everyone has the time to clean their gutter system constantly. With an easy-to-maintain system, you don’t need to worry about the gutters getting unsightly or cleaning them as much.

Moreover, seamless gutters can improve the appeal of your home. Every seamless gutter system is custom-made for every house, ensuring that it fits perfectly. If your gutters fit properly and are sized correctly, they will function better. Many homeowners see these gutters as more appealing than sectional systems. They can be made in different durable materials, such as aluminum, copper and steel. You can also have them painted to complement the look of your home’s exterior.

Since seamless gutters have fewer joints than sectional ones, they are less likely to leak. It is also because of this feature that seamless gutters are less prone to clogs and backups. Clogged gutters will cause water to overflow to your exterior and back up to the roof. Make sure to hire an experienced gutter contractor to enjoy these benefits.

High-Quality Gutter Protection System

A high-quality gutter protection system is another upgrade that will help prolong the life of your new roofing system. Gutter covers or gutter guards keep debris from entering the gutters, meaning you won’t have to clean them as often.

By preventing clogs, your gutter system can also help get rid of ice dams. Standing water in your gutters can freeze and turn into ice dams, which are damaging to your roof. One more benefit of gutter guards is that they can improve water flow in your gutters and downspouts. It is especially beneficial to homeowners who own a rainwater tank.

Better Insulation

Insulation helps prevent outside temperatures from affecting your indoor spaces. It protects your living spaces against the extreme cold in winter and too much heat in summer. This component reduces noise pollution and contributes to the energy efficiency of your home. If your home has sufficient insulation, you will save a significant amount on your heating and cooling costs.

The energy savings you can get from improving your insulation depends on the material and the size of your house. Did you know that around 25% of heat is lost through your roof? It is one reason you should invest in better insulation when getting a new roof.

If you are looking for ways to reduce your household’s carbon footprint, choosing and installing better insulation can also help. Because insulation lets you consume less energy, your home produces fewer emissions. A skilled home improvement contractor can help you choose the best type of insulation with the lowest environmental impact.

Eave Flashing

Professionals install eave flashings at the edge of the roof. This flashing helps prevent water from penetrating the top of the wall panel. Eave flashing will improve your home’s protection against water damage and its overall appeal, and keep pests away. It creates a watertight seal to your roof, which can prevent ice dams. You can also add them around dormers, skylights and other penetrations that are prone to leaks.

Airtight Chimney Cap

Ask your roofer if you need to upgrade your existing chimney cap. Investing in an airtight chimney cap will prevent heated air from escaping to the flue when you are not using your chimney. This upgrade will reduce your energy costs in winter and improve your home’s energy efficiency.

The chimney cap has a low-profile look when closed. This add-on will help you avoid pest issues since creatures won’t be able to enter through the chimney. These insects and small animals will also not be interested in going into your chimney when it is open and running.

Improved Ventilation

If your home does not have proper ventilation, warm, humid air will damage your roof’s structure. When the temperature rises during summer, an overheated attic will heat your roof, making the underlayment brittle and inefficient. Your roofing system should have proper ventilation to extend its life and to keep the rest of your home in good shape.

The temperature of your attic floor, ceilings and duct will be lower with proper roof ventilation. It reduces the load on your cooling system, which in turn lowers your energy costs. Sufficient ventilation also aids in mitigating ice damming, which occurs when warm air from the house does not escape from the vents properly. Eventually, ice dams can reduce the lifespan of your shingles, gutters and soffits.

For your exterior remodeling needs, hire an experienced and reliable contractor like AllPoint Construction. Our team installs roofs, vents, siding, gutters, tile, flooring and more. Call us at (734) 407-7110, or fill out our contact form to get a free estimate.